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20th Annual Medical Marijuana Concert Headlined by Inner Circle to be Held September 22 at Wow House

NORML of Florida, Ploppy Palace Productions, and Modern Galaxy TV again host benefit concert featuring live music, vendors, speakers and more

Miami, FL – August 28, 2018 – The 20th Annual Medical Marijuana Benefit Concert hosted by NORML of Florida, Ploppy Palace Productions, and Modern Galaxy TV promises to be a celebration like none before. Throughout its two-decade long run, the concert has featured many local and regional acts, but this year, reggae legends InnerCircle will top the bill. Early bird tickets for the event are $25 and available online at bit.ly/MMC20; show is open to those 18 and over. The Wow House is located at 3100 NW 7th Avenue, Miami, FL 33127. Music begins at 4:20 p.m.

“As we continue to organize and bring people together for the event, I am reminded of the diversity of voices that this event represents,” says PloppyPalace’s Flash, local activist and the event’s founder. “By embracing the broad scope of cannabis in society, this showcase features an assortment of genres, mediums and demographics to help represent the widespread appeal of marijuana culture.”

Flash continues: “This event strives to present solidarity as we demonstrate our unity beyond age or ancestry because our roots are recognized in our collective liberty. Medical Marijuana is about healthcare and protecting patients from misguided law enforcement. The laws changed in Florida because voters got together and pushed for reform.” The event is being sponsored in part by Trulieve and New Belgium Brewing.

Live music acts also include TelekineticWalrus, SunGhosts, the Nag Champayons, RhythmFlow, Kuyayky, Hakim Green of Channel Live, Mr. GrimReapa, Bodizepha, Michelangelo, CoolPeeple, HavikenHayes, BuzzFleischman, Orrin Bolton, BrightWing, DJ GQ and more. Spoken word artists include Alonso, Raven, Rebecca Butterfly Vaughns and others. There will be live art by AnibalFernandez, Linx and more, as well as dance and performances by Elviza, MelodyGedeon, and others to be announced. Event art by Atomik.

Latin funk band aims to record seven songs plus covers, and issue new music

Hialeah, FL – August 20, 2018 – If lucky and good, there aren’t many things a band around for 11 years doesn’t get to do or see. ElectricPiquete has twice been named “Best Latin Band” by the MiamiNewTimes, garnered much local press, been featured on regional and national news media, played countless high profile (and crappy) gigs, joined the music festival circuit, and even tangled with Hurricane Matthew.

There are however, three glaring items on the Hialeah-based Latin funk / fusion band’s bucket list: release a full-length collection, issue music on vinyl, and run a successful crowd-funding campaign. They intend to do all three in one shot. Those interested in contributing to the cause on Indiegogo and accessing the available perks should navigate here: http://bit.ly/EPIGG.

“I’ve been itching to get back into the studio for a long time now, and this campaign is certainly going to facilitate that,” says Michael Mut, co-founder, bassist and band leader. “It’s only fitting to issue the music on vinyl, as that seems to be the only format that is selling these days. We are really excited about the new material, and are grateful for any support our family, friends and fans can offer. We invite everyone to check out the perks we have available.”

The band is offering everything from Skype instrument, theory and social media lessons, to autographed drum heads and set lists, to private performances; perks start at $15. They’ve even put longtime friend and producer FernyCoipel up for the taking – for $150, you can have him drive to your location anywhere in the tri-county area, and have him make you Cuban coffee while serenading you with the classic Charanga 76 tune “El Café de Hialeah”. In a skirt. The featured perk is the “EP tee & CD package”, which is available for $40.

Electric Piquete’s music has been licensed by Lexus, featured in the Emmy-winning JoeCardona documentary Miami Boheme, and on an episode of CNNGo. The band is a veritable melting pot of influences that range from rock to jazz and spiced with everything in between: funk, fusion, old-school salsa, progressive and R&B. Though mostly instrumental, they feature vocals with three-part harmonies and rapping on several numbers.

The bulk of the new material is newly-penned and relatively-new tracks, with a couple of hold-overs from previous recording sessions. There are plans to record a couple of signature cover tunes. In 2016, they issued the Singles Collection, which encapsulated the group’s most recent and noteworthy works. Last year a live version of the relatively new track “Chunk” surfaced on the band’s Soundcloudpage.

Electric Piquete also features co-founder EdRosado on drums, ChrisCorreoso (guitar), and RichDixon on trumpet and flugelhorn. The band’s sound is currently augmented by RaymondAyala on percussion and vocals, CharlesGardner on keyboards, and RobertSmiley on tenor sax and flute. Occasionally, the band features special guests Damian J.Sanchez on saxophones and flute, MacoMonthervil on vocals, and JoseMiranda on trombone.

Birdman’s Clambake to Debut at Bar Nancy August 31

Miami, FL – August 13, 2018 – The band best known for their track “Oye Mamacita” will make their debut at Bar Nancy, the Little Havana craft cocktail and live music venue, on Friday, August 31, 2018, beginning at 10 p.m. The rock and blues trio is led by founder and lead guitarist / vocalist Sean “Birdman” Gould, who is also Bar Nancy’s lead sound engineer. Opened in 2017, the Nancy is located at 2007 SW 8th St, Miami, Florida 33135. There is no cover; 21 and over are welcome to attend.

Birdman’s Clambake features virtuoso guitar playing backed by a powerful rhythm section. They serve up just the right amount of ballsy blues with classic rock and a side of kitsch. The band’s repertoire, often fluidly ordered on the fly by Gould, ranges from 50s staples to classics from the 60s and 70s. They also feature a good number of originals including the aforementioned 2000 ode to the ladies of Hialeah and “Beer, Biscuits and Gravy,” filmed at the now-closed TobaccoRoad’s upstairs cabaret. The band also features MonchyCorugedo on drums and special guest MichaelMut on bass.

The vibe of the place is colonial-era nautical, and once inside, the sense is one is in the galley of a ship. With wood-lined walls, tables and chairs, a natural essence is prevalent. Nancy offers a sizable selection of draft and canned beers, as well as specialty cocktails. An outside patio with seating is available. The bar hosts a weekly “JT and the Fro” electropop open mic / jam night led by Juan Turros and Tony “Smurphio” Laurencio,, and a monthly writers in the round series.

Monthly Latin music series returns with two Miami-based bands – one Cuban folk and the other Afro-Galactic / tropidelic funk – plus a world music DJ

Jupiter, FL – August 6, 2018 – Noche Latina, the monthly Latin music series at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar (960 North Highway A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477), returns on Saturday, August 25, 2018, beginning at 4 p.m. and will feature Cortadito (Cuban folk), the NagChampayons (Afro-Galactic / Tropidelic), and DJEphniko (multi-cultural tunes). Experience the best South Florida-based Latino music acts in an enchanting, outdoor setting on the Loxahatchee River. No cover, all ages welcome to the early show; 21 and over after 9 p.m.

“The double bill of of Cortadito and the Nag Champayons is an excellent mix that our loyal Latin music fans very much enjoy,” says Guanabanas talent buyer MattCahur. “The combination of Cuban folk and spaced-out Miami funk is a potent one, and adding Ephniko to the mix means we are in for quite a flavorful afternoon and evening.” Cahur is the head of Roots Music, Inc., which for 20 years has offered music management, production and promotions services out of Jupiter. Cahur is also the master sound engineer at Guanabanas.

From inception, Cortadito’s focus has been performing the traditional Cuban music of the early 20th century: the Son Montuno, Guaracha, Boleros, Nengon, and BoleroSon styles. This dynamic ensemble brings the listener back to a time when Trio Matamoros, or Ignacio Piniero ruled the Cuban music world, and when Son Montuno was influencing music throughout the globe. From time to time, Cortadito is backed by a variety of guest musicians, which gives the group a sound reminiscent of the Buena Vista Social Club. Learn more at www.CortaditoSon.com. They are celebrating the release of their latest CD, Canciones de Julio.

Miami’s Afro Galactic / Tropidelic funksters the Nag Champayons blend African, Caribbean and North American influences into a unique and extremely danceable sound. They continue to play local and regional music festivals, and are currently in the studio recording new music. Their most recent release is the single and video for “Brazilian LSD”, which served as a follow up to 2015’s masterful Rising Sounds of a Sinking City, a darkly serious and ominous 21-minute environmentally-conscious theme. For more details, visit www.NagChampayons.com.

Ephniko is the front man for the Nag Champayons, but he is also a very in-demand world music selector. The Baranquilla, Colombia-born MC approaches crowds as a rhythm shaman looking to heal their stress and sadness by taking them on a journey. He does so by combining tribal-like acoustic sounds from folklore all over the world with the electromechanical vibrations of the first world inner cities where he found his musical voice.

There is no cover; 21 and over are welcome after 9 p.m. For more information, please call 561.747.8878 or visit www.Guanabanas.com.

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ABOUT GUANABANAS

Guanabanas is an open air restaurant and bar with woven tiki huts and banyan trees towering overhead and hand-chiseled coquina stone pathways underfoot. The team maintains a laid-back, island atmosphere where everyone is welcome. The award-winning menu features a fusion of Mexican, fresh Florida seafood and traditional fare; an all-new brunch menu is available Saturdays and Sundays. Guanabanas offers a custom catering menu and signature cocktails. Executive Chef Vinny Trupia oversees the culinary operations and also manages a community garden at the neighborhood resource center El Sol.

The establishment hosts recurring “Give Back Thursdays” to help the needs of the local community organizations, partnering with willing companies to help drive donations and money where needed, as well as giving away stage space to allow charities to showcase their cause. Past beneficiaries include the Surfrider Foundation, Martin Memorial Hospital, Haiti Relief Effort, the Brave Maeve Foundation, Freedom Flight for WWII Vets by the Martin County Firefighters, Furry Friends, and many others.

Reggae Singer / Songwriter Mishka Returns to Guanabanas August 4

Nationally and internationally touring artist with ties to the Caribbean a favorite of local music fans

Jupiter, FL – July 23, 2018 – Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar music fans cannot seem to get enough of Mishka. The reggae / soul / acoustic troubadour who last played in the area in November of 2017, will return to the Jupiter venue for an intimate performance on Saturday, August 4, 2018, beginning at 9 p.m. The show is free and open individuals 21 and over. Guanabanas is located on the Loxahatchee River and near the Jupiter Inlet at 960 North Highway A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477.

“Very few performers that come through here exude such soul and grace,” says Guanabanas’ Talent Buyer Matt Cahur. “Mishka is an amazing performer and we are lucky to have him this and every time. This show is not to be missed.” Cahur heads up Roots Music, Inc., which is based in Jupiter and for 20 years has offered music management, production and promotions services. Cahur is also the lead sound engineer at Guanabanas.

Born in Bermuda, Mishka was raised in the Caribbean. He launched his career in earnest with the 1999 release of his self-titled debut. Since then, the artist he has been on both major and independent labels, and his songs have been featured on sound tracks in films and t.v. all over the globe. Winner of the iTunes Singer Songwriter of the year award for his digital-only collection of acoustic songs called Guy with a Guitar in 2009, Mishka’s songs have topped the Billboard Magazine Reggae chart three times.

He’s shared the stage with artists ranging Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, ZacBrown, DirtyHeads, Matisyahu, to John Brown’s Body, Burning Spear, SlightlyStoopid, SlyandRobbie, TheRoots, and Donovan. Mishka recorded and produced latest effort Roots Fidelity – a nod toward 70s dub / reggae – with his cousin Alec in Maui, Hawaii. Mixed in the UK by the prominent engineer PrinceFatty, the 12-song collection features a collaboration with the Legendary Horseman, and several tracks with backing vocals by famous UK reggae singer Earl 16.

Mishka, a past guest on county superstar KennyChesney’s SiriusXM channel “No Shoes Radio”, has become a favorite of the program, placing nearly 40 of his songs on the show’s playlist. Mishka will be performing cuts from his entire catalog, which features several singles, EPs, and full-lengths on August 4 and on the previous evening August 3, during which he will be embarking on an exclusive, sold-out sunset boat cruise aboard the PonTiki with fans.

Guanabanas is an open air restaurant and bar with woven tiki huts and banyan trees towering overhead and hand-chiseled coquina stone pathways underfoot. The team maintains a laid-back, island atmosphere where everyone is welcome. The award-winning menu features a fusion of Mexican, fresh Florida seafood and traditional fare; an all-new brunch menu is available Saturdays and Sundays. Guanabanas offers a custom catering menu and signature cocktails. Executive Chef Vinny Trupia oversees the culinary operations and also manages a community garden at the neighborhood resource center El Sol.

The establishment hosts recurring “Give Back Thursdays” to help the needs of the local community organizations, partnering with willing companies to help drive donations and money where needed, as well as giving away stage space to allow charities to showcase their cause. Past beneficiaries include the Surfrider Foundation, Martin Memorial Hospital, Haiti Relief Effort, the Brave Maeve Foundation, Freedom Flight for WWII Vets by the Martin County Firefighters, Furry Friends, and many others.

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE FOURTH ANNUAL BALL & CHAIN MUSIC FESTIVAL LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Ball & Chain to Celebrate 83 Years with Three Day Music Festival Featuring Over 100 Musicians

WHO: Ball & Chain, Calle Ocho’s most famous live music hotspot is thrilled to announce their fourth annual music festival in honor of the venue’s 83rd anniversary this Labor Day Weekend, August 31- September 2, 2018. The historical Little Havana landmark originally opened its doors in September 1935 as a booming live jazz bar which lasted through the 1950s. The throwback speakeasy reopened in September 2014 with an authentic but retro Cuban flare meticulously redecorated in iconic 1950s Miami style under new ownership by Ben Bush, Zack Bush and Bill Fuller.

WHAT: This marks the fourth annual three-day music-driven event created to not only celebrate the venue’s birthday, but also to showcase their dedication to the live music scene in South Florida and support of local artists. Guests can expect to hear a variety of music genres from jazz to Latin pop to Afro-Cuban funk. The live shows will begin on Friday and continue through Saturday and Sunday, where from 12PM to 3AM over 100 critically-acclaimed musicians and DJs will be jamming out on the Pineapple Stage.

Featured bands will include:

PALO!

Zarabanda

Marlow Rosado

Elastic Bond

Lucy Grau

TimbaLive

Sonlokos

Pepe Montes Conjunto

Soulpax

Tiempo Libre

Lauren Henderson

Lemon City Trio

VLADE DIVAK

Suénalo

Conjunto Progreso

Leslie Cartaya

Art Official

Aaron Lebos Reality

Gene Paul Band

Jahzel

An exclusive music festival menu will be available featuring a festive mix of craft cocktails, drink specials and bar bites. All attending guests will be eligible for exclusive giveaways and raffles. Table reservations should be made in advance, please contact info@ballandchainmiami.com.

Ball & Chain is a historic and world famous live music venue located at 1513 Southwest 8th Street, Miami, FL 33135, in the center of Little Havana. The retro jazz bar on Calle Ocho was reborn in September 2014 as a live music venue with an authentic Cuban flare and meticulously redecorated in iconic 1950s Miami style by new ownership Ben Bush, Zack Bush and Bill Fuller. Before the area became a harbor for Cuban refugees, the bar “On the Trail” (Tamiami Trail) from the mid-1930s to late 1950s was a popular late-night stomping ground for many of the world’s most famous jazz musicians including Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Count Basie, and Chet Baker. The revived entertainment venue has reclaimed its reputation as a power player in Miami’s nightlife scene with a 3,000 square-foot interior and a 3,500 square-foot patio both outfitted for live music. The music scene at Ball & Chain infuses contemporary sounds with old school jazz and salsa. The venue features live music daily. The iconic bar features a top shelf and premium liquor bar, signature and special craft cocktails, as well as a Cuban inspired tapas menu. Ball & Chain is open from 12PM to 12AM from Monday through Wednesday, 12PM to 3AM Thursday, Friday, Saturday and 11AM to 12AM on Sundays. Happy Hour is Monday through Sunday starting at 4PM to 7PM featuring two for one specialty cocktails. For additional info please visit www.ballandchainmiami.com.

All-day celebration of the music of the Grateful Dead and its legendary leader to feature seven acts

Jupiter, FL – July 10, 2018 – Jerry Garcia once said of the GratefulDead: “We’re like licorice. Not everybody likes licorice, but the people who like licorice really like licorice.” There must be hundreds of licorice aficionados in and near Jupiter given the reaction to and popularity of the first two Jerry Garcia Birthday Bashes at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar (960 North Highway A1A Jupiter, FL 33477). This year’s event is being sponsored by BoulevardBrewingCompany and SuerteTequila.

“We’re excited to be once again paying tribute to the godfather of the jam band scene with a celebration that includes seven of the best South Florida jam bands around,” says Guanabanas talent buyer Matt Cahur. The music begins at noon, there is no cover, and the show is all-ages. There will also be vendors selling jewelry, accessories and Dead merch. There will be a Boulevard craft beer tent, as well as a Suerte Tequila tent.

Based in Delray Beach, UnlimitedDevotion has played in each of the previous two Guanabanas Jerry bashes. UD, very popular throughout the U.S. and especially South Florida, are not a traditional Grateful Dead tribute band. They don’t emulate the band’s song book as much as interpret it, expressing themselves through improvisation. Band interests include: jazz, table tennis, team snoring and synchronized yawning. More info: www.facebook.com/UDMusic.

Equal parts fruit, band and transforming mechanized battle robot from another planet, Guavatron is a fusion four-piece based in West Palm Beach. With emphasis on improvisation, Guavatron creates a fresh sound at every show while keeping their roots of dance, rock, electronica, and funk involved. They are another act to have played Guanabanas’ Jerry fests one and two. More details are available at guavatron.bandcamp.com.

The Daniel Heitz Band is the first of four newcomers to the party. Led by their guitar prodigy namesake, the Orlando-based trio combines blues, soul, bluesrock and funk to form a Southern-fried, axe-driven powerhouse. DHB play extensively throughout Central Florida and will also be making their Guanabanas debut. Learn more at www.DanielHeitz.com.

UprootHootenany describe themselves as “roots, folk, Celtic, bluegrass, whiskey-fueled fun” and are based in Deerfield Beach. The four- piece band features some of South Florida’s top string instrument players, love pickin’ and grinnin’, and play originals and inventive covers by everyone from The Rolling Stones to JohnnyCash. They are the third of three bands to have played at each of Guanabanas’ Jerry bashes. More details are available at www.uproothootenanny.com.

The Legacy Orchestra Collective is a festival-style reggae / funk / soul jam band made up of numerous members from local bands that come together to perform original compositions along with many favorites of any era. Based in Clermont, FL, the band lists BobMarley, TheBeatles, LedZeppelin, GratefulDead, and Umphrey’sMcGee as main influences. More: www.facebook.com/LegacyOrchestraCollective.

Delray Beach is home to Spiral Light, another Jerry bash newbie. A Grateful Dead tribute act, the band’s name is fittingly taken from a line in the outstanding Dead tune “Terrapin Station”. The five-piece band performs regularly throughout Palm Beach and Martin counties, and is available for private parties and events. Learn more about them here: www.facebook.com/SpiralLightBand. They are also making their Guanabanas debut.

Flint Blade is a one-man Chapman stick / vocal performer. His brand of ambient, beat-driven psychedelia with folk, jazz and dub reggae influences make him extraordinarily unique. Flint shares music in love through song, rhythm and harmony. A veteran of several Guanabanas brunch engagements, Flint will be playing a Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash for the first time. Learn more here: www.flintblade.net.

Guanabanas is an open air restaurant and bar with woven tiki huts and banyan trees towering overhead and hand-chiseled coquina stone pathways underfoot. The team maintains a laid-back, island atmosphere where everyone is welcome. The award-winning menu features a fusion of Mexican, fresh Florida seafood and traditional fare; an all-new brunch menu is available Saturdays and Sundays. Guanabanas offers a custom catering menu and signature cocktails. Executive Chef Vinny Trupia oversees the culinary operations and also manages a community garden at the neighborhood resource center El Sol.

The establishment hosts recurring “Give Back Thursdays” to help the needs of the local community organizations, partnering with willing companies to help drive donations and money where needed, as well as giving away stage space to allow charities to showcase their cause. Past beneficiaries include the Surfrider Foundation, Martin Memorial Hospital, Haiti Relief Effort, the Brave Maeve Foundation, Freedom Flight for WWII Vets by the Martin County Firefighters, Furry Friends, and many others.

Latin funk band and Latin Reggae / Urban Soul group play in Jupiter during monthly Latin music night

Jupiter, FL – July 9, 2018 – Jupiter, FL – July 9, 2018 – Two bands from Miami will bring a musical summer sizzle to the Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar stage Saturday, July 21, 2018: two-time Miami New Times “Best Latin Band” ElectricPiquete (4 p.m.) and the Grammy-nominated Xperimento (9 p.m.), marking the debut for the latter. The monthly NocheLatina music series is going on its third year and features some of South Florida’s top Latin music talent at the sublime waterfront venue. Guanabanas is located at 960 N Hwy A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477. No cover, 21 and over welcome to the evening show.

“This month’s lineup promises to be quite a spectacular experience for fans of Latin funk and reggae,” says Guanabanas talent buyer MattCahur. “Electric Piquete are a cornerstone in our Latin Night programming, and they never disappoint. I’m excited to welcome Xperimento and their extremely talented musicians to the fold, and I’m looking forward to sharing their multicultural vibe.” Cahur owns and operates Roots Music, Inc., a Jupiter-based music promotions company active for more than two decades. He also oversees the live music bookings at Guanabanas and is the venue’s lead sound engineer.

Electric Piquete is a veritable melting pot of musical goodness, borrowing heavily from the early 70s Latin soul / Fania All-Stars sound, enhancing the groove with American funk and rock influences, mixed in with some jazz sensibilities. The mostly instrumental band mixes original music with inventive interpretations of standards, and uses improvisation as a vehicle to take listeners on a Afro-Caribbean journey of sound. They are set to enter the studio later this summer to produce a full-length recording. More details: www.ElectricPiquete.com.

Xperimento blends world sounds such as Cumbia, reggae, ska, Salsa, Merengue, Dembo, Kuduru and funk with elements of rock, R&B, hip-hop and dancehall. Members of the band have recorded and performed with world-famous artists including Prince, EnriqueIglesias, RickyMartin, Fonseca, PaulinaRubio and AlejandraGuzman to name just a few. Their debut album Second Floor continues to make fans dance, as the band tour and continuing to self-produce their highly-anticipated third album. Learn more here: www.Xperimento.com.

Guanabanas is gearing up to celebrate its 10th anniversary with an exciting new announcement coming soon. They continue to offer a weekend brunch buffet, and have a food truck and catering services available. Guanabanas’ award-winning menu features breakfast, lunch and dinner items, all locally-sourced and unbelievably fresh. Signature cocktails include the Coconut Mojito, a Mango Beach Break, and the Guanabanas’ Cat 5; their wine list only contains labels produced in an Earth-friendly manner.

Guanabanas is an open air restaurant and bar with woven tiki huts and banyan trees towering overhead and hand-chiseled coquina stone pathways underfoot. The team maintains a laid-back, island atmosphere where everyone is welcome. The award-winning menu features a fusion of Mexican, fresh Florida seafood and traditional fare; an all-new brunch menu is available Saturdays and Sundays. Guanabanas offers a custom catering menu and signature cocktails. Executive Chef Vinny Trupia oversees the culinary operations and also manages a community garden at the neighborhood resource center El Sol.

The establishment hosts recurring “Give Back Thursdays” to help the needs of the local community organizations, partnering with willing companies to help drive donations and money where needed, as well as giving away stage space to allow charities to showcase their cause. Past beneficiaries include the Surfrider Foundation, Martin Memorial Hospital, Haiti Relief Effort, the Brave Maeve Foundation, Freedom Flight for WWII Vets by the Martin County Firefighters, Furry Friends, and many others.

Band celebrates fifth studio album with U.S. tour featuring special guests E.N Young & Imperial Sound plus EarthKry

Jupiter, FL – June 5, 2018 – Katchfire, one of New Zealand’s most popular touring reggae / roots acts, have quickly become a favorite among the genre’s fans stateside. They are celebrating the release of their latest set called Legacy with a seven-state summer tour, bringing them to Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar Friday, June 15, 2018. The venue is located at 960 N Hwy A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477). Special guests E.N Young & Imperial Sound and EarthKry open the evening at 7 p.m. No cover, 21 and over welcome.

“Katchafire just lit this place up last time they came through in March of 2017,” says Guanabanas talent buyer MattCahur. “We expect another white-hot show and are looking forward to their return.” Cahur founded and runs Roots Music, Inc., a Jupiter-based music promotions company active for two decade plus. He also manages live music bookings at Guanabanas and serves as the venue’s lead sound engineer.

Katchafire formed in 1997 as a BobMarley Tribute band in Hamilton, Aoteoroa, New Zealand. The all Maori reggae band members include father and lead guitarist Grenville Bell, son / lead singer LoganBell, and son / drummer / singer / songwriter JordanBell. The band has opened for such reggae legends DamienMarley, SteelPulse, UB40, TheWailers, Spearhead and others. Staples on the California and Pacific roots scents, Katchafire have performed at Glastonbury, and numerous festivals throughout Europe and Brazil.

The new release, which debuted at #1 on the U.S. iTunes Reggae chart and got as high as #5 on the Amazon Best Seller reggae list, features exciting and fresh messages of love, hope, togetherness, and family. The 12 tracks on this album were recorded in numerous studios around the world, from New Zealand and Australia, to L.A. and Hawaii, to Jamaica, featuring collaborations with some of reggae’s finest. The Legacy cover art is titled “War Canoes of the New Zealand Maori”, created by Hawaiian artist Herb Kane.

Born Ian Allan Young and raised near the U.S. / Mexico border in San Diego, CA, E.N Young began playing the piano at age six. He switched to drums at age 12 as a result of an arm injury, and began performing and touring by age 15. He’s also a studio owner (Imperial SoundRecording Studio) and record producer, having worked on tracks for artists such as Gonzo, LeilaniWolfgramm, Tatanka, MysticRootsBand, ClearConscience, Revival, Animo, InnaVision and SkanksRoots. His latest release Call on Me debuted at #3 on the iTunes reggae chart.

EarthKry hail from Jamaica and feature former EdnaManleyCollegeoftheVisual& Performing Arts in Kingston students PhillipMcfarlane (keyboards), drummer KieronCunningham, bass guitarist KamardoBlake and vocalist/guitarist AldayneHaughton. Inspired by BobMarleyandTheWailers, TheBeatles, JohnHolt, PeterTosh, JacobMiller, BlackUhuru and SteelPulse, the group had cemented a wholesome fusion of roots reggae, souls and rock genres into a fresh but universal sound.

Guanabanas is an open air restaurant and bar with woven tiki huts and banyan trees towering overhead and hand-chiseled coquina stone pathways underfoot. The team maintains a laid-back, island atmosphere where everyone is welcome. The award-winning menu features a fusion of Mexican, fresh Florida seafood and traditional fare; an all-new brunch menu is available Saturdays and Sundays. Guanabanas offers a custom catering menu and signature cocktails. Executive Chef Vinny Trupia oversees the culinary operations and also manages a community garden at the neighborhood resource center El Sol.

The establishment hosts recurring “Give Back Thursdays” to help the needs of the local community organizations, partnering with willing companies to help drive donations and money where needed, as well as giving away stage space to allow charities to showcase their cause. Past beneficiaries include the Surfrider Foundation, Martin Memorial Hospital, Haiti Relief Effort, the Brave Maeve Foundation, Freedom Flight for WWII Vets by the Martin County Firefighters, Furry Friends, and many others.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Concert at Murray Nelson Center near mile marker 102 to feature diverse array of four local and international world music acts

Key Largo, FL – May 16, 2018 – Following three days of events in Key West, the 20th Afro Roots World Music Festival travels back up U.S. 1 to the Murray Nelson Center (102050 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037) for it’s final concert Saturday, June 2, 2018. Live acts will include SanbaZao(Haiti), TotoOmana (Congo), LosHerederos (Cuba) and the 305 Street Band (Miami). Tickets – available online at http://bit.ly/ARWMFKL – are $20, children 12 and under are free, and seniors, students and military personnel with ID are $10. Please note that the full price will be charged without ID at the door. The event runs 3 to 11 p.m.

“It’s been an amazing six-month celebration and we are excited about our final event in Key Largo,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of Community Arts and Culture (CAC). “Sanba Zao is a dynamic performer and it’s only fitting that he closes our show in Key Largo, being that he headlined our first show back in January in Jupiter.” Elias is a guitarist with the SpamAllstars, and plays the tres in his group Cortadito. He is also a producer and Grammy nominated musician and recording artist.

Born Louis Lesly Marcelin, Sanba Zao is a master drummer and Haitian roots music legend. He is also a professor at L’Ecole National des Arts, Haiti’s national arts school, and has devoted his life to teaching and promoting the culture and music of Haiti. Marcelin runs an elementary school called the Bazilo Ecole Communautairei, which was one of the first to reopen after the 2010 earthquake that devastated his home country. Sanba Zao has also sings and tours with Lakou Mizik, and performed with other Haitian groups such as Group Sa, FoulaJazz, and Djakata.

Toto Omana is a singer / songwriter / guitarist from Kinshasa, Republic of Congo. Influenced by Franco and OK Jazz, his music combines African Soukous with American R&B, funk, and soul. Toto speaks more than 12 languages, and sings in Swahili, Mandingo, English, Spanish, and French. Toto appeared as a guest on the Grammy-nominated group, Conjunto Progreso’s recordMaster Sessions Descarga & Son.He’ll release a full-length set on Afro Roots Recordings in 2019, which will be produced by Elias.

Los Herederos, winners of the 2016 Miami New Times award for “Best Latin Band”, are the brainchild of Cuban percussionist and vocalist Philbert Almenteros. They perform in a very stripped down drum and chant format comprised of percussion-heavy rumba, guaguanco, and yambu numbers, which are all deeply rooted Afro-Cuban stylings. Philbert’s great grandmother was one of the founding members of the world-renowned Afro-Cuban folklore group Clave y Guaguanco.

The 305 Street Band are a brass-heavy ensemble probably best known for their on-court performances with the NBA as the MiamiHEATStreetBand. They perform pop, Latin, hip-hop, R&B, and everything in between, as well as dance to every song, performing intricate routines and even providing crowd interaction, from sing-a-longs, to limbos. The band is led by DavidBurgos, a trumpet player and member of another prominent Miami group, Elastic Bond.

In addition to the live music performances, there will also be dance and percussion workshops earlier in the day for all age, as well as arts and crafts vendors, as well as food and beverages available for purchase.

This 20th iteration of the festival, which is curated and by the non-profit organization CAC, features more than 50 international and local acts from all over the world, and is being held at venues from Jupiter to Key West.

Brought to you by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, and with the support of the Friends of the Key Largo Cultural Center and The Tank Brewing Company. For more information, please visit www.AfroRootsFest.com or call 305.294.4641.
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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

CAC also produced the A Day at the Beach Concert Series, which enjoyed a five- year run, in addition to co-producing the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.